Imagine a dish that combines the convenience of frozen ravioli with the mouthwatering magic of a home-cooked Italian masterpiece. This Baked Tomato Basil Ravioli is your ticket to an effortless yet incredibly delicious meal that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that looks like it took hours to prepare but comes together in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package frozen ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Remove the frozen ravioli from the package and do not thaw. Place the frozen ravioli in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spread.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the ravioli, making sure each piece is well-coated. Use a spoon or spatula to distribute the sauce if needed.
- Sprinkle garlic powder across the top of the sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The garlic powder will add depth of flavor to the dish.
- Generously cover the ravioli and sauce with shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a complete cheese layer that will melt and become golden during baking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the ravioli cook evenly and prevent the cheese from burning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the ravioli is heated through and the cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to turn golden and slightly crispy.
- Once removed from the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to settle and cool slightly.
- Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top of the baked ravioli to add a bright, fresh flavor and aromatic garnish.
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish, accompanied by a side salad or garlic bread if desired.
Tips
- Do NOT thaw the ravioli before baking - frozen ravioli works best for this recipe and helps prevent overcooking.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. If possible, choose a sauce with fresh herbs and rich tomato taste.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes before baking.
- Make sure to cover the dish with foil initially to prevent the cheese from burning and ensure even heating.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a crispy top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to turn golden and slightly crispy.
- Fresh basil is key - add it just before serving to maintain its bright, aromatic flavor and vibrant green color.
- Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete this delightful meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
